show
A1neutral
Definition
Meaning
to make something visible or allow it to be seen; to display or exhibit
to demonstrate, prove, or indicate something; to guide or lead someone; a public exhibition or performance; a television or radio program
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The word spans concrete (visual display) and abstract (demonstration of qualities) meanings. As a noun, it can refer to entertainment, evidence, or appearance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In UK English, 'programme' is used for TV/radio shows, while US uses 'program'. The verb 'show' is used identically. The noun 'show' for an exhibition is common in both.
Connotations
In US English, 'show' as a noun for TV/radio is slightly more informal than 'program'. In UK, 'show' can sound more casual than 'programme' in broadcasting contexts.
Frequency
Extremely high frequency in both varieties with minimal difference.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
show + objectshow + object + to + personshow + that-clauseshow + object + adjectiveshow + object + wh-clauseVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “show your true colours”
- “show someone the ropes”
- “steal the show”
- “show of hands”
- “for show”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
To present data, results, or a business plan: 'The graphs show a clear upward trend.'
Academic
To demonstrate or prove a theory or finding: 'The study shows a correlation between the variables.'
Everyday
To display something or guide someone: 'Can you show me how to use this app?'
Technical
To render or make visible on a screen: 'The software shows the 3D model from all angles.'
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- We went to see a fantastic light show at the museum.
- His sudden kindness was just for show.
- What's your favourite television show?
American English
- The fireworks show on the Fourth of July was amazing.
- Her anger was all show; she wasn't really upset.
- Did you watch the new show on Netflix?
verb
British English
- Could you show me the way to the nearest tube station?
- The data shows a need for further investment.
- He showed great courage during the crisis.
American English
- Can you show me how to get to the nearest subway stop?
- The data shows we need to invest more.
- She showed incredible patience with the trainees.
adjective
British English
- This is a show home, so everything is perfectly staged.
- He has a very showy personality, always seeking attention.
American English
- This is a model home, decorated to show its features.
- That's a showy car, but not very practical.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The teacher will show us a picture.
- I like to watch a show before bed.
- Can you show me your homework?
- The experiment shows that plants need light to grow.
- She showed her ticket at the entrance.
- We saw a great show in the West End.
- The latest figures show a significant shift in public opinion.
- His actions showed him to be a person of integrity.
- The artist's work was the star of the show.
- The prosecutor's line of questioning was designed to show the witness's inconsistency.
- Her research shows beyond doubt that the theory is flawed.
- The charity event was a lavish show of support for the cause.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SHOW window where things are displayed for everyone to SEE.
Conceptual Metaphor
UNDERSTANDING IS SEEING (e.g., 'I see what you mean' parallels 'This shows what I mean').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid using 'show' for 'tell' (рассказывать). Use 'show' for visual demonstration (показывать).
- The noun 'show' (шоу) in Russian is a direct borrowing but is used more narrowly for entertainment spectacles.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: 'He showed me how does it work.' Correct: 'He showed me how it works.'
- Incorrect: 'She showed to me her photos.' Correct: 'She showed me her photos.' or 'She showed her photos to me.'
Practice
Quiz
In the idiom 'show your hand', what does 'hand' metaphorically represent?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is irregular: show - showed - shown/showed. 'Shown' is more common as the past participle, especially in American English.
'Show' is more general and common. 'Demonstrate' often implies a more formal, detailed, or scientific proof or explanation of how something works.
Yes, in intransitive uses like 'The stain will show' or 'Her talent really shows when she performs.'
It means something is done only for appearance, to create an impression, and not for a real or practical purpose.
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Daily Verbs
A1 · 50 words · Essential action words used in everyday conversation.